Pretoria - Cabinet has called on all South Africans to celebrate Freedom Month by building a united and prosperous South Africa.
Celebrated in April, Freedom Month marks the dawn of freedom and democracy, and the achievements of all South Africans in moving away from hatred, divisions and a painful history to build a common future together.
This year will mark 19 years of the country’s democracy, which is being celebrated under the theme ‘Mobilising society towards consolidating our democracy and freedom’.
Last week, the Presidency said this year’s celebrations will promote the National Development Plan as a long-term vision, which should serve as a basis for partnerships across society to attain the South Africa that is eloquently articulated in the Constitution and historic national documents such as the Freedom Charter of 1955.
The celebrations will also recognise and celebrate the strides that have been made since 1994 and recall the country's rich human rights tradition.
The month should also be a period of reflection on what else needs to be done collectively towards the goal of building a prosperous society and an improved quality of life for all, especially the poor and the working class.
The Presidency added that the Freedom Month should remind the nation of the need to work hard continuously to ensure that every household has water, electricity, sanitation, a good school, clinic, police station, roads and all other basic services.
Led by President Jacob Zuma, major events are planned to celebrate the month. These include the opening of the new //hapo museum next week Monday to memorialise those who gave their lives in the struggle for freedom.
The national event will be at the Union Buildings on 27 April. National orders will also be bestowed on outstanding South African citizens and foreign nationals on the same day. - SAnews.gov.za
